Little Burgundy Festival: Born out of some dark days
Contact Staff
The community comes alive on Saturday, September 12 for the 30th edition of the Little Burgundy Festival at Oscar Peterson Park.
Under the banner, Burgundy United, organizers are calling on all residents to participate in this landmark event that will bring together a cross-section of performers from across Montreal.
The festival was launched in 1985 by a network of residents and organizations in the community, spearheaded by Elizabeth Vargas and other activists.
It was born out of what many remember as very dark days in the community, at a time when Black on Black violence was rampant and racism was debilitating.
In what was a communal sense of isolation, the festival aimed to unite the community and restore a sense of belonging among the youth.
During its early days the festival provided a stage and an outlet for Little Burgundy’s many talented performers, and today organizers still make an effort to showcase homegrown talent.
Among those lined-up to supply nonstop music for the day are Skipper Dean, Jah Cutta and the Determination Band, Mellow G, Bollywood, Spivey and the calypsonians, Nicky G, Hawk Rolling Blues Band, Beezy Bro, Jacob Fyre, Brother John and friends, Zulu Kings, Heart Hand Soul, Noam Guerrier Jazz Quartet, Stay Free, Los Skallywags, 3G Harmony, Charles Claxton and many more.
The day will also include activities, including face painting, arts and crafts and sports. There will be an abundant supply of food on sale.
Little Burgundy Festival on September 12th, 2015 at Oscar Peterson Park (Metro Georges-Vanier, rue Quesnel, corner des Seigneurs) between 12 pm and 08 pm. N.B. In case of rain, the festivities will be held in front of 741 Des Seigneurs. Info. Youth in Motion: 514-931-5510 or Michael Farkas: 514-835- 3417.
